Differential Carrier: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 Ford F-550 Super Duty, 2013 Ford F-450 Super Duty, 2013 Ford F-350 Super Duty, and 2013 Ford F-250 Super Duty. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

All vehicles

Remove the axle shafts. For additional information, refer to WHEEL HUBS AND BEARINGS - FULL FLOATING AXLE - FORD .
Remove the 12 differential cover bolts and the differential cover.

Fig 1: Locating Differential Housing Cover Mounting Bolts
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
NOTE: Index-mark the position of the differential bearing caps, as arrows may not be visible. The differential bearing caps must be installed in their original locations and positions.

Remove the 4 differential bearing cap bolts and the 2 differential bearing caps.

Fig 2: Locating Differential Bearing Cap Bolts
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

ELD equipped vehicles
Disconnect the ELD electrical connector and remove the bolt that holds the connector adapter to the housing.

Fig 3: Locating ELD Connector Mounting Bolts
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Pull the connector adapter out and disconnect the ELD coil electrical connector from the connector adapter. Discard the adapter.

Fig 4: Locating ELD Coil Electrical Connector Adapter
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

All vehicles
NOTE: Place a wood block between the pry bar and the axle housing to protect the machined surface from damage.

NOTE: Be careful not to allow the differential assembly to fall.

NOTE: Index-mark the position of the differential bearing shims. The differential bearing shims must be installed in their original locations and positions.

Using pry bars and wood blocks, remove the differential assembly from the axle housing.

Fig 5: Removing Differential Case From Rear Axle Housing
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.